Sturminster Newton is quietly becoming one of Dorset’s most creative corners. Whether you’re hunting for a handmade gift or hoping to be inspired by fellow makers, there’s no shortage of opportunities to get stuck in.
Spooky season arrives in style
Sturminster’s Halloween celebrations are going big this year: it’s all happening on Thursday 31st October, right in the middle of half term. There will be a big, family fun event in theafternoon at the Railway Gardens, with other events around the town too:
Stur the Cauldron in the Railway Gardens: 3pm to 7.30pm: Loads of outdoor activities, there will be a pumpkin trail, slime making, apple bobbing, cake decorating, mask-making, spooky bookmark crafts, photo booth, face painting and more!
4pm to 6pm: Storytelling sessions:
4pm (ages up to 7),
5pm (ages 8 to 12)
6pm (ages 12 to 18)
4.30pm Best fancy-dressed pet competition 6.30pm Best costume competition
Children’s Light Party at the Methodist Church, Church Street: 3.30pm to 5.30pm
BugFest at The Exchange, 3pm to 5pm. This is a FREE event, thanks to Friars Moor Vets and Southwest Wills and Probate Ltd
SNADS Halloween Murder Mystery at The Exchange – 7.30pm, tickets available from The Exchange (£20, includes dinner and dessert)
Halloween story competition – entries close 21st October, winners announced on the night
The Halloween event is a joint community effort from SNADS, SturAction, Riverside Festival, Home-Start Blackmore Vale, LitFest, the Vale Family Hub, Community Connections, Sturminster Newton Town Council … and a band of enthusiastic local ghouls and goblins.
New faces at 1855
Stur’s own eclectic Artisan Market and shopping destination, 1855, continues to thrive, bringing an exciting mix of local talent and creativity to the community. With new faces and fresh offerings, the market has been buzzing with excitement. In just the last two months alone, 13 new traders have joined, including:
Tolive
Silver jewellery and hand-crocheted bags
Handmade with Love by Natalia
Stunning pipe cleaner flower art
The Compton Candle Company
Handcrafted candles and diffusers
Bath Bomb Boutique
Luxurious handmade bath bombs
Regenerative Nomads
Herbal teas and botanical remedies
Flo & Mo
Aprons, cushions, and tooth fairy pillows
Jane Wade Scarlet
Local author
Wild Lines
Eco cards featuring endangered animals
Quilting Jane
Bespoke patchwork tote bags
Olivia’s Treats
Handmade cheesecakes
Buckridge Dairy
Local handmade ice cream
Mystacoll’s Spirit
Copper wire tree sculptures
Paul Hawthorn
Professional artist and sculptor
Crafts at The Exchange
Held in the Atrium of The Exchange on the first Saturday of each month, this craft market brings together around 20 rotating stalls from local crafters and artists. Expect to find jewellery designers, potters, glass artists, woodturners, textile makers, soap and wax crafters and more. Many accept commissions and create bespoke pieces – perfect for thoughtful gifts (we are all strating to think ahead for Christmas, yes?) or just for treating yourself. Entry is free, and profits support the maintenance of The Exchange building.
Upcoming Saturday craft market dates are 4th October, 8th November and 6th December.
RiverFest Quiz & Curry Night
Join the fun on Friday 3rd October as Mayor Joe Rose hosts a quiz night in aid of RiverFest 2026.
1855 Meet the Maker
On the morning of Saturday 4th October, some 1855 traders will be moving next door to showcase their craft in the garden of the White Hart.
Car and Bike Enthusiasts Meet
Also on 4th October, the Car and Bike Enthusiasts return to the Rec from 9am to 12pm – and there’ll be free parking across both town car parks.
Knit and Natter
Join the friendly Knit and Natter group in the Coffee Bar at The Exchange on the first and third Wednesday of every month, 2pm to 3pm.
All abilities very welcome.
Creative classes at Beads with a Twist
From glass fusing and stained glass to silver clay and wirework, Beads with a Twist has a packed programme of hands-on workshops this autumn. To book or find out more, contact Petrina on 07967 806849 or [email protected]
